Camping on North Stradbroke Island (or Straddie) turned out to be one of my favourite weekend adventures. After visiting Fraser and Moreton Islands, I didn’t think Straddie would compare.
But it did!
And after spending a few days camping on Flinders Beach, I wondered why it had taken me so long to visit Straddie in the first place! The beaches are just as beautiful, it’s easier to get to, and you don’t necessarily need a 4WD to explore (though having one does open up more options).
If you’re thinking about a Stradbroke Island camping trip, here’s everything you need to know – from how to get there, to the best camping spots, plus a few other tips for visiting.
Getting to North Stradbroke Island
North Stradbroke is the easiest of the three big sand islands to reach from Brisbane and Gold Coast.
The ferry departs from Toondah Harbour in Cleveland (about a 40-minute drive from the city), and the trip across takes around 45 minutes.
The ferry takes both cars and walk-on passengers, but I’d recommend bringing a car if you can.
When you arrive at Dunwich, the island’s main hub, you can stock up on essentials at the local shops before heading to your campsite. There’s also a petrol station here.
Best camping spots on North Stradbroke Island
The campsites on North Stradbroke Island are well-suited for all types of travellers.
Some are right on the beach where you can have open fires, while others have all the creature comforts – hot showers, powered sites, and even glamping tents.
I’ll start with the beachfront camping zones, which are my favourite. All bookings need to be made through Minjerribah Camping’s website which you can find here.
Beach front camping zones
There are two designated beachfront camping areas: Flinders Beach (north of the island) and Main Beach (east).
You’ll need a 4WD to access these areas, as well as a Vehicle Permit – see prices here.
Neither Flinders nor Main Beach has any infrastructure, so you’re going to have to rough it up a bit. But this is what makes camping here so special. You’re right on the beach, the camp sites are bigger than the others on Straddie, and you’re allowed open fires.
TIP: If you still want access to hot showers and flushing toilets, you can buy a shower pass for Adder Rock Campground nearby.
Flinders Beach Camping
Flinders Beach is the more popular of the two beachfront camping areas. It’s located north of the island, close to Adder Rock.
We camped in Zone J on Flinders Beach and had Kangaroos hopping through our site in the evening. I loved it here and can’t wait to book my next trip.
Flinders Beach is calmer than Main Beach, so it’s great for families. Some zones (E, H, and J) have composting toilets, but they do not smell great! Other than that, there are no showers or other amenities at Flinders Beach camping area.
Main Beach Camping
Main Beach feels much more remote. It stretches for kilometres down the eastern side of the island, and it’s often quieter than Flinders.
Main Beach is open to the elements and is exposed to wind and surf, which makes it better for fishing than swimming.
Some campers I met actually prefer camping on Main Beach during summer, because the sea breeze helps keep their tents cool.
There are no composting toilets and showers at Main Beach. But as with Flinders Beach, you can purchase a shower pass to use the facilities at Adder Rock.
Other camping spots on Stradbroke Island
If you’d prefer a few more comforts, there are plenty of campgrounds on North Stradbroke Island with hot showers, undercover BBQ areas, and powered sites.
These are easier to access with a regular car, too.
On the downside, you’re not camping on the beach, the sites are smaller, and open fires are not permitted.
Adder Rock | One of the biggest sites on the island, right by the northern beaches. It has powered and unpowered sites, glamping options, and cabins. No fires allowed, but the undercover BBQs are handy.
Amity Point | Probably the best spot for sunsets. A big campground with plenty of options (tents, glamping, cabins). Great family vibe and fishing nearby.
Cylinder Beach | Best known for its surf. Smaller than Amity, but a good option if you want beach access with facilities.
Home Beach | A more intimate campground, tucked away on the northern beaches.
Bradbury’s Beach | On the western side, suited more to caravans and camper trailers, with glamping options too.
Adams Beach campground is currently closed.
Camping on North Stradbroke Island
I had the best time camping on Stradbroke Island. I loved having that 4WD, beachfront camping experience, while also being able to use the facilities at Adder Rock.
Despite the island having tar roads, restaurants and shops, it still felt off the beaten track.
Here are a few of my other camping posts that may interest you.
